The "best" Edison cynlinder machine for the newbie...

[FellowCollector]

In keeping with the topic which is the best Edison cylinder machine for the newbie, one must consider that a newbie will likely not have experience with removing a pot metal bearing. And, ideally, the newbie should never have to be concerned with making any repairs especially one as potentially disastrous as removing a pot metal bearing. I have seen more than one bearing 'boss' that was broken (not mine but I've seen them) due to too much force or improper force being applied to remove the bearing. If I had to keep just one phonograph in my collection it would be my Amberola 1A with its excellent design, superior sound reproduction and ability to play both 2 and 4 minute cylinders. However...if I did not own an Amberola 1A and financial constraints were a major factor in purchasing a first cylinder phonograph, the one that offers absolutely zero disadvantages is the Edison Fireside model A.

It features:
1. Factory installed 2 / 4 minute gearing
2. A compact and attractive cabinet
3. Superior designed motor and upper works utilizing a simple, yet tried and true internal mandrel shaft instead of a bearing and 'boss' to support the weight of the mandrel and mandrel gears.
4. No concerns about having to replace a pot metal bearing if it is swollen and seizing the mandrel shaft
5. An attractive and compact bedplate adorned with blue and gold decals.
6. A bedplate that is actually hinged for easy access to the motor instead of the old design of utilizing hinges and wood screws through the oak cabinet and bedplate frame that frequently loosen and become stripped.
7. A generally higher resale value since it is less common yet still very desirable versus most other Edison cylinder phonographs with factory installed 2 / 4 minute gearing in the same price range.

I don't mind being in the minority in my opinion on this topic. And please don't get me wrong - the Standard model D is a fabulous machine...provided the 'newbie' finds one that is in excellent playing condition. Otherwise, keep looking until you find a machine that is in fine playing condition and meets your financial and playing criteria.

Doug

Doug

[flashpanblue]

Hello,
Here is a picture of an Edison Home model D that is for sale on Stan Stanford's web site http://www.clarphone.com Look under his Phono sale section. Machine is in nice shape has both 2+4 minute gearing. It comes with the 4 minute model H reproducer and a nice 14" horn. The pot metal bearing has already been replaced with a new bronze one. Asking price is $475.00
Pete

[Jerry B.]

Wow, we're at five pages and going strong. I know the thread is focused on Edison products but how about a 2&4 minute Columbia BE? Jerry

[Jerry B.]

Stan is traveling to Union with me so we could get that Home into Illinois at no cost. Jerry

[BwanaJoe]

Wow, we're at five pages and going strong. I know the thread is focused on Edison products but how about a 2&4 minute Columbia BE? Jerry

I grew up next to Edison's winter home; I'm prejudiced! Plus I have a C19, I figured I stay with the theme.

I'm sure the Columbia is nice though!

[BwanaJoe]

Stan is traveling to Union with me so we could get that Home into Illinois at no cost. Jerry

Still a bit far away from FLA though!

[BwanaJoe]

Hello,
Here is a picture of an Edison Home model D that is for sale on Stan Stanford's web site http://www.clarphone.com Look under his Phono sale section. Machine is in nice shape has both 2+4 minute gearing. It comes with the 4 minute model H reproducer and a nice 14" horn. The pot metal bearing has already been replaced with a new bronze one. Asking price is $475.00
Pete

Thanks for the lead Pete. The link does not work however nor does typing in the URL. A search turned up nothing either.

Edit: Never mind. I found it under Clarphon. Stupid auto correct.

[BwanaJoe]

Getting info from this guy is hard. It is an inherited machine. Broken belt. However, does anyone have a guess as to tyoe of machine?

[De Soto Frank]

A little hard to tell from the photo, but it looks to me like a Standard B, 2-minute only.

Also looks like that horn has been quickie spray-bombed ?


Keep looking...

[BwanaJoe]

A little hard to tell from the photo, but it looks to me like a Standard B, 2-minute only.

Also looks like that horn has been quickie spray-bombed ?


Keep looking...

Thanks. Will do.